The Rise of Serviced Apartments: A New Trend in Design

What is a Serviced Apartment?

A serviced apartment is essentially a fully furnished, self-contained living space available for short- or medium-term stays. Unlike a typical rental, these properties come equipped with everything from kitchenware and linens to Wi-Fi and weekly housekeeping - offering the comfort of a home with the convenience of a hotel.

They’re ideal for professionals on extended work trips, relocating families, weekend city-breakers, or anyone seeking a stylish base with a little more privacy and space than a hotel.

Why Are They Trending?

A few key factors are driving this growth:

• The rise of remote and hybrid working: People are spending time in different cities without necessarily relocating, and serviced apartments offer an appealing, home-from-home alternative to impersonal hotels.

  
  

• Short-stay property investment: Many property owners are recognising the income potential of creating beautifully designed, short-term lets that stand out on platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com.

  
  

• Changing guest expectations: Modern travellers increasingly value individuality, quality interiors and thoughtful details in their accommodation — serviced apartments allow for a more curated, personal experience.

  
  

Designing for Serviced Apartments

As a Bristol interiors expert, I find designing serviced apartments an exciting challenge. These are small but mighty spaces where clever layout, durable materials, and beautiful design have to work hand in hand.

Some of the key things I focus on include:

• Maximising functionality: Every piece of furniture needs to work hard — think sofa beds, ottomans with storage, and small-space dining solutions.

  
  

• Creating a sense of place: The best serviced apartments reflect their surroundings. In Bristol, that might mean using locally made ceramics, vintage West Country artwork or celebrating the city’s industrial heritage with tactile materials.

  
  

• Layering warmth and personality: Even if guests only stay a few days, a space should feel welcoming and considered. I achieve this with carefully chosen lighting, art, textiles, and natural materials.

  
  

The Future of Serviced Apartments in Bristol

Bristol is perfectly placed for the serviced apartment boom - with a thriving business scene, two universities, a vibrant cultural calendar, and a constant stream of visitors discovering the city’s independent spirit.

I expect to see more characterful, design-focused serviced apartments appearing in the city over the next few years, with property owners recognising that considered interiors are key to standing out in a competitive short-stay market.

The Benefits of Working with an Interior Designer

If you’re considering launching a serviced apartment in Bristol, or you already have a short-stay property that could do with a design refresh, working with a local interior designer in Bristol can make all the difference.

At Khaya Studio, I specialise in creating interiors that balance style, practicality, and a strong sense of place - helping you create memorable, bookable spaces that guests want to return to.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, serviced apartments represent a significant opportunity for property owners and investors. They combine the comforts of home with the luxury of hotel services, making them an attractive option for many. As the demand for these spaces continues to grow, so does the need for thoughtful, well-designed interiors.

If you’re ready to embark on this journey, I invite you to reach out. Together, we can create a space that not only meets the needs of your guests but also reflects your unique vision and style.

Get in touch if you’d like to chat about your serviced apartment project.